A Persian Wedding at the Chateau Laurier

Weddings

Dec 13

Hilda + Omid

black and white wedding photograph of a couple kissing in front of the chateau laurier in ottawa

In the heart of Ottawa, where the historic meets the elegant, the Chateau Laurier provided the perfect backdrop for Hilda and Omid's enchanting Persian wedding. This celebration was not just a union of two souls but a beautiful blend of cultures, showcasing the rich traditions of Persian heritage set against the classic architecture of this iconic hotel.

We had great light to photograph both Hilda and Omid getting ready, and then headed outside for a first look and some portraits. Randomly, a cheerleading squad walked past us and gave the couple a cheer! After we finished with the portraits we headed back inside the hotel for the ceremony and got our first look at the Sofreh Aghd. The Sofreh Aghd is central to Persian weddings, symbolizing the couple's hopes for their life together.

Hilda and Omid's table was adorned with symbolic elements like the mirror (symbolizing reflection and clarity), candles (for enlightenment), and an assortment of sweets, herbs, and spices, each carrying its own significance. The meticulous setup was a testament to the couple's deep respect for their cultural roots, with every item carefully chosen to represent aspects like sweetness in life, fertility, and prosperity. The sugar cone ritual, where sugar was rubbed over the couple's heads, was a highlight, showering them with wishes for a sweet life together.

Following the Persian tradition, the couple exchanged rings and shared a taste of honey, symbolizing the promise of a sweet and loving life. This moment was especially poignant, as it not only marked their union but also their commitment to blending their cultures and traditions into their new life.

Our role was to capture not just the moments but the emotions as well. Through photography and videography, we aimed to document every detail, from the intricate patterns of the Sofreh Aghd to the candid, heartfelt moments of family and friends coming together. The golden light of the Ottawa sunset provided a natural backdrop for outdoor photos, with the Chateau Laurier's majestic silhouette adding a fairytale touch to Hilda and Omid's perfect day.

We are honoured to have been part of their journey and to share these memories with you.